How do I approach poetry?

The first step to analysing poetry is to simply read it. Approach it with a clear mind on your first read through and make brief note of any emotions it evokes or key themes. Then return to the beginning and annotate your initial ideas; these annotations should include detailed studies of form and structure, such as rhyme, meter and stanzas, and the use and connotations of particular lexical choices. This work can easily be translated into a plan and arranged so that each paragraph of analysis directly relates to its predecessor.